A passion for rural life, land and water, and agriculture binds Thriving Southland’s catchment coordination team.

The team of four are out and about and getting stuck into conversations about how they can best support catchment groups.

There are now 32 groups covering 85% of Southland, with more groups forming.

Senior Catchment Coordinator Rachael Verhaegh says the team are excited to be up and running and getting to know more people in the catchment group communities.

“We look forward to working with encouraging and developing groups, getting projects off the ground and inspiring community action,” she says.

Alongside Rachael, is Sarah Thorne, well-known to people in catchment communities as she was the energetic Southland coordinator for the NZ Landcare Trust Southland Farmer-Driven Community Catchment Groups Project.

“I love working with Southland's Catchment Groups and all the agencies and people that support them. I put my heart and soul into my work, and love seeing the real and lasting changes we are making across Southland,” Sarah says.

Fellow Catchment Coordinator, and South Otago dairy farmer, Sandra Campbell, is known for being down to earth and leading by example.

“I have a passion for connecting rural communities and our agricultural industry. I also have a rural banking background, and a strong involvement in our local water catchment group,” Sandra says.

Rounding out the team is Dipton farmer Poppy Sparrow, who like her colleagues is an active member of her community.  

“I have a passion for agriculture and supporting farmers, and being immersed in farming compelled me to get involved with Thriving Southland,” she said.

If you want to get in touch with the team please click here.